Our branch campus in Quito celebrated the third edition of the Cultural Caravan, an event that celebrates artistic and cultural diversity, talent and the university’s social commitment. The Caravan was already held in our branch campuses in Cuenca and Guayaquil.   

The caravan took place in Quito on May 29th at the “Teatro Capitol” and then on May 30th in “Sur” campus. There were presentations from artistic groups from our three branch campuses, as well as especial guests from Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador and Escuela Politecnica Nacional. 

 
With over 500 participants, the caravan became a benchmark between university art and society; it promoted intercultural dialogue and the development of group identity. In each edition, this event has showcased the talent of the university’s groups in disciplines such as music, dance, choir, and theater. The performances have stood out for their artistic quality and for fostering values of inclusion, creativity, and student participation.

This year's program included the contemporary dance group, the music band, the choir, the folk dance group, and the theater group from our branch campus in Quito; and the folk dance, urban dance, and choir groups from Guayaquil; as well as the choir and folk dance group from Cuenca. This program not only demonstrates the artistic work of young university students but also UPS's commitment to comprehensive education that includes artistic expression as a tool for social transformation.  

 
Pamela Villacrés, a student of the master’s degree in Inclusive Education in Guayaquil and a member of the Ayawayra folk dance group, said: "Participating in this cultural caravan as a representative of the cultural groups has been very enriching because it has allowed us to showcase the art and culture of Guayaquil and the mountain region."

Ariel Pacheco, a fifth-semester dentistry student in our branch campus in Cuenca and a member of the choir, said: "It was an experience full of knowledge which gave us the opportunity to showcase our talent by representing Cuenca." The events "allow us to show the great artistic and cultural talents we have within the university and to raise awareness of the country's culture."

Juan Carlos Culquicondor, director of the ASU “Tumipampa” Traditional Dance group in our branch campus in Cuenca, said: “These events raise awareness about the activities in the university, and they provide students an opportunity for reflection and recreation in their student life. Therefore, it is vitally important to create activities where students have an appropriate environment to develop their talent and personal leadership.” He also said that: “As a group, we were happy and excited to share this experience with groups from all campuses.”

Finally, María de los Ángeles Andrade, director of the modern dance group in Guayaquil, said: “It helps develop students' soft skills, as well as foster creativity and inclusion. It is very enriching to exchange cultures and talent with our students.”